Hi all. Since I figure the collective computer knowledge on these forums is pretty high, I was wondering if someone could give me advice for buying a new laptop.

I'm looking for something with:

-High linux compatibility

-Sandy bridge i7 processor

-Low end but better-than-integrated graphics (AMD preferred, since NVIDIA Optimus has LInux issues)

-Blu-ray drive

-Not a Mac

I've been looking around at Lenovo and Asus, but I haven't found anything yet that fits all of these requirements. Anybody have experience/suggestions?

I'm not a hardcore gamer, but I would like to be able to play games/experiment with graphics programming on this, it's more than just an internet machine.

Thanks!

You need to remember that a lot of hardware manufacturers don't consider linux a valid market so they won't spend much in the way of resources on developing drivers for us. That said there are plenty of great ppl out there who do develop linux drivers for their own reasons but also on their own schedule. I guess what I'm trying to say is that a brand new top of the line laptop is not likely to be %100 compatible with any linux distro for every hardware item in it, it may take 6-12 months.

Generally compatibilty is pretty good however, so don't be afraid to buy new. In regards to your requirements please note that playing blu-ray disks on linux is not a simple process and may require some fiddling.

Why don't you take a look at Zareason or System 76. They may not meet your exact specs, but they do make high-end Linux laptops.

I have a Toshiba Satellite A665 that I've been using heavily for nearly a year. Running Fedora 14 64 bit. It has the i7 processor, Nvidia GeForce GT 330M dedicated graphics with it's own high def audio controller. Also onboard Intel Series/3400 audio. But no Blue-Ray. I've had no Linux related problems. Even the web cam works, as well as the memory card reader. I downloaded the drivers for the wireless card, Realtek 8192C/8188C, and it works.

Moved: This thread is more suitable in <Linux-Hardware> and has been moved accordingly to help your thread/question get the exposure it deserves.

I thought about lenovo until I got one ... now I am unsure since there are some acpi/bios issues ...